France is Not Considering Withdrawals of Troops from Niger, Says Catherine Colonna

France's Minister of Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna stated today that the question of withdrawing troops from Niger is currently not under consideration, as French units are deployed in the country based on agreements with its legitimate authorities.

“There is no such issue on the agenda. French troops are in Niger under agreements signed with the legitimate authorities to support the fight against terrorism,” Colonna said.

She also noted that following the military coup on July 26, Paris had halted military and civilian cooperation with Niger.

Currently, there are approximately 1,500 French soldiers in Niger. According to Colonna, the situation around French forces is calm, and she expressed hope that “it will remain that way.”